Logistics Lobby Speaks Out as UK Government Commits to Cleaner Air by 2035
Now Action is Needed to Promote New Technologies and Transport Modes
UK – Despite what would seem initially a paradox, the freight and logistics sector has wholeheartedly backed the drive to reduce the transport industry s emissions. The reasons of course are not entirely magnanimous. The commitment is driven by factors such as customer demand, all businesses wishing to present a cleaner image to the world, and the fact that retooling the industry might actually lead to newer equipment and higher profits.
As shipping lines and shipbuilders along with hauliers and truck makers seek cleaner transport modes, the transport lobby has spoken on UK government commitments made this week to cut emissions by 78%, compared to 1995 levels, by the year 2035. Announcing the intentions Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
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Freeports, Fuel Duty and Tax Changes Delight for Some and an Anathema to Others
UK Logistics Sector Gives a Variable Reaction to Budget
UK – The logistics sector drew breath this week and then released a torrent of words to comment on the Budget measures, taken as they are in the light of chaos caused by both the Covid pandemic and the exit from Europe.
Whilst some see Freeports as the road to Damascus, others are sceptical of the advantages or downright hostile, seeing them as an excuse to lower employment standards. Measured comments come from such as Robert Keen, Director General of the British International Freight Association (BIFA), who welcomed some of the macro-economic announcements in the UK Budget that will offer ongoing support to businesses in the freight and logistics sector that have been hit hard by the double whammy, saying:
The industry gave a cautious welcome to the Government advice.
The Northern Ireland Protocol keeps the country in line with EU trade rules and animal products require special certification.
A statement from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said: “Freight volumes into Northern Ireland’s ports are at normal levels for this time of year and there have been no significant queues.
“We have always been clear that as the Northern Ireland Protocol is implemented we would work very closely with industry and DAERA (Stormont’s agriculture department) to improve ways of operating.
“Our new approach to the movement of mixed food loads into Northern Ireland, known as groupage, is more flexible and gives businesses further options as to how they meet the required SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) checks and we will continue to offer our support to hauliers and suppliers as this beds in.”